Shockwave therapy is generally not covered by insurance because it is mainly considered a type of alternative or complementary therapy rather than being an evidence-based treatment. While there have been some studies supporting its effectiveness, most studies have had limited scales or used questionable scientific methods.
Additionally, pre-approval processes for insurance companies to cover a specific treatment are expensive, and many medical providers are not willing to undertake the process unless the therapy offers well-researched and proven benefits.
As shockwave therapy is not generally well-known or accepted as a mainstream treatment, most insurance companies are not willing to provide coverage for it.
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How much does a session of shockwave therapy cost?
The cost of a session of shockwave therapy depends on a variety of factors, including the type of treatment received and the size of the area that is being treated. On average, however, shockwave therapy can cost anywhere from $100 to $300 per session.
Additionally, in some cases, a patient may require several shockwave therapy sessions in order to obtain the desired results. The decision to pursue shockwave therapy should be discussed with a medical professional so that an individualized treatment plan can be created.
It is also important to discuss the potential costs prior to undergoing any type of treatment.
When should you not use shockwave therapy?
Shockwave therapy should not be used on any people who have active cancer, who have a cardiac pacemaker, on any bones that have a growth plate, on any area where there is an infection or skin ulcer present, on pregnant women, or on any person who has just had recent joint or ligament repair or surgery.
Shockwave therapy should also not be used on anybody who is taking anticoagulants, has an intracranial or intraspinal aneurism, or has an organ or tissue transplant. In general, it is recommended to consult a physician to determine if shockwave therapy is appropriate.
Can shockwave be harmful?
Yes, shockwaves can be harmful if they are delivered in too high of a dose. Shockwaves are used to treat musculoskeletal conditions such as tennis elbow and tendinitis, but if the dose is too high, it can actually cause more harm than good.
Shockwave therapy can cause bruising, bleeding, and pain in the area, so it is important to make sure the dose is at the right level to avoid this. Additionally, shockwaves can have an effect on vital organs, and so should be used cautiously and only when absolutely necessary.
Are there any side effects to shockwave therapy?
Yes, like any medical treatment, shockwave therapy has the potential for side effects. In general, the risks are low and many patients tolerate the procedure well.
The most common side effects associated with shockwave therapy are temporary muscle/joint pain and bruising from the site of application. Other reported side effects include skin redness, swelling, and discomfort at the site of treatment.
Additionally, because shockwave therapy targets deep within the body, the use of anesthetics is typically not required. Therefore, some patients may experience a sensation of discomfort during the procedure.
In rare cases, shockwave therapy may cause negative side effects such as nerve damage or tendon ruptures. To minimize the potential for such effects, it is important to only undergo shockwave therapy from qualified clinicians, who can adjust the settings based on your individual needs.
It is also important to discuss the risks and benefits of the treatment with your clinician prior to undergoing the procedure. This will help ensure that you make an informed decision that is right for you.
Does shockwave reduce inflammation?
Yes, shockwave therapy can reduce inflammation. Shockwave therapy utilizes acoustic waves to target and reduce inflammation, pain, and stiffness. The waves create tiny bubbles in the tissue, which creates micro-ruptures and stimulates cells of the immune system to produce proteins that help reduce inflammation.
This results in increased circulation and improved recovery over time. Research has shown that shockwave therapy can be effective in the treatment of inflammation, and it is especially effective in helping to reduce non-inflammatory pain.
It can also be used to reduce stiffness and improve mobility, making it an attractive alternative to pharmaceuticals. There are various types of shockwave therapy available, depending on the level of intensity, direction, and duration of the shockwave.
Each type of shockwave has its own benefits for optimal results. Therefore, it is important to consult a healthcare professional who can help you decide which type of shockwave therapy is best suited to your needs.
How long does a shock wave last?
A shock wave typically begins to dissipate within several seconds to a few minutes, though the span can vary depending upon the strength of the shockwave and the size of the air mass it is propagating through.
For example, a strong explosion can generate a shockwave that can last several minutes. As the shockwave dissipates, it generates sound waves that can cause a sonic boom to travel far distances, and the air expelled by the shockwave can cause minor damage in buildings and other structures.
Is shockwave therapy long term?
Shockwave therapy is typically thought of as a short-term treatment option for a wide variety of medical conditions. It is most commonly used in physical therapy to help alleviate chronic pain, improve range of motion and reduce inflammation.
However, it is possible for shockwave therapy to produce long-term results, depending on the patient and the type of medical condition for which it is used. For example, studies have found that shockwave therapy can be used to effectively treat chronic plantar fasciitis, a condition in which the flat band of tissue connecting the heel bone to the toes becomes inflamed, for up to two years after treatment.
Although long-term results are possible with shockwave therapy, studies have found that the effectiveness of the treatment tends to decrease after six months. As such, it is generally recommended that patients receive regular follow-up treatments in order to maintain the results of their initial shockwave therapy.
It is also important to note that results may vary from patient to patient as every case is unique. It is best to speak with your doctor or physical therapist in order to determine how long you can expect to receive lasting effects from shockwave therapy.
Can you have too much shockwave therapy?
Yes, it is possible to have too much shockwave therapy. In general, the common recommendation is to have a maximum of 5-6 treatment sessions of shockwave therapy. Any more than that and the body may not benefit from any further treatments, as the body may become desensitized to the effects of the shockwave and it may no longer respond as well as it did initially.
Additionally, overusing shockwave therapy can potentially lead to other complications, such as pain, swelling, bruising, nerve damages, and other abnormal tissue reactions. For this reason, it is advisable to talk to a physician or physical therapist before having more than 5-6 shockwave therapy treatments.
